The death has been announced of Violet Brand MBE of natural causes on Saturday 4th April, aged 91.

She died peacefully at the Nursing Home where she had been resident for a number of years, having been recently joined by her husband Geoffrey, which enabled them to share their last years together.

Statement

In a statement from the Brand family, husband Geoffrey, son Michael and daughter Gill they stated: "For each member of the family Violet was a special wife, mother, grandmother and great- grandmother, who was loved and respected enormously by all of us.

As well as her enriched family life Violet achieved an enormous amount in the brass band world in her own right as well as supporting Geoffrey as a musician.

She co-edited the British Bandsman with him from 1967 — 1975, collaborated as authors of 'Brass Bands in the 20th century', a seminal book, and attended many courses of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain where she took an active part in the important residential arrangements."

Pioneer

They added: "She was also very active as a pioneer in teaching literacy through phonics, and even now her Spelling Books are widely used. We are all very proud that she was awarded the MBE for services to Adult Literacy and are grateful for everything she gave us."

She co-edited the British Bandsman with him from 1967 — 1975, collaborated as authors of 'Brass Bands in the 20th century', a seminal book, and attended many courses of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain4BR

Funeral arrangements

4BR was informed that the funeral will be made directly and private in accordance with current regulations, followed by a Memorial Service when circumstances allows.

Condolence cards and correspondence should be sent c/o Michael Brand, 8 Chailey Avenue, Rottingdean, BN2 7GH or e-mail messages of condolence can be sent to michael@gmbrand.co.uk

A full obituary will follow.